The United Arab Emirates has pledged US$550 million to support the United Nations’ Global Humanitarian Overview (GHO) for 2026, reaffirming its position as a leading contributor to international aid and crisis response.
The announcement comes as the UN seeks to mobilise US$33 billion to assist approximately 135 million people across 23 humanitarian operations worldwide.
According to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), the appeal prioritises safeguarding the lives of up to 87 million people in urgent need of assistance, calling for US$23 billion in immediate funding to prevent further deterioration of humanitarian conditions.
The initiative includes extensive programmes for refugees, migrants, and communities affected by conflict, disaster and economic instability.
The UAE’s commitment highlights its enduring dedication to global humanitarian efforts and its strategic role in bolstering multilateral relief initiatives. The country continues to collaborate closely with UN agencies such as the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), as well as international development organisations, to ensure that aid reaches vulnerable populations swiftly and effectively, in line with national leadership directives.
Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, emphasised the UAE’s ongoing support for global relief efforts. “The UAE continues its steadfast commitment to supporting global humanitarian efforts and working with our UN partners to ensure access to aid for those most impacted,” she said.
She noted that the pledge reflects the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and underscores the importance of international solidarity in delivering sustainable and life-saving assistance.
The announcement was welcomed by top UN officials. Tom Fletcher, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator at OCHA, praised the UAE’s rapid response. “Our global appeal is about saving lives where shocks have hit hardest – and turning plans into real protection.
The UAE’s rapid and generous backing of our 2026 plan sends a strong signal, focused on people who need it most.”
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus also highlighted the significance of the support, stressing the vulnerability of health systems in crisis zones. “Warning signs of health system collapse manifest long before it occurs – outbreaks spread, malnutrition increases, and preventable deaths rise.
When we come together, services can be restored and lives saved,” he said, thanking the UAE for providing crucial assistance that will benefit millions.
The UAE’s substantial contribution is expected to bolster efforts to stabilise fragile regions, restore essential services and respond to escalating humanitarian emergencies worldwide.